FDA says there is a high probability that eating the tomatoes can lead to serious adverse health consequences or even death
The Food and Drug Administration in the United States has given the highest risk level to a tomato recall in three states. According to health officials, tomatoes from Williams Farms Repack LLC could be contaminated with Salmonella, a deadly bacteria that can lead to severe foodborne illness.
The states of Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina have been affected by the recall issued at the Class I risk level, which means there is a high probability that eating the tomatoes can lead to serious adverse health consequences or even death. According to doctors, Salmonella infection commonly causes watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.
However, some groups, like young children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems due to underlying health issues, may experience severe, potentially fatal infections.
What is a salmonella infection?
Salmonella infection, also known as salmonellosis, is a bacterial infection that usually occurs through contaminated food but can also be transmitted through contact with infected animals or people. Doctors say even though most cases resolve on their own, some people may require treatment to prevent dehydration or if the infection spreads to other parts of the body.
Getting salmonella means enough bacteria have gotten past your stomach acid and immune system to make you sick. Salmonella bacteria invade and destroy the cells that line your intestines, making it hard for your body to absorb water, which can give you stomach cramps. The water leaves your body in the form of diarrhoea.
Doctors say salmonella is one of the most common forms of food poisoning. Over a million people in the US alone get salmonella every year, and 26,500 are hospitalised. There are about 420 deaths due to salmonella every year across the country.
What are the signs and symptoms of Salmonella poisoning?
A few initial symptoms of salmonella appear anywhere from a few hours to a few days after exposure to the bacteria. According to experts, symptoms of salmonella affect your stomach and intestines (GI tract) and include:
- Bloody diarrhoea
- High fever
- Stomach cramps and pains
-
Nausea and vomiting
- Severe headache
While you may not always throw up when you have
Salmonella poisoning, your poop would usually be runny and you may have to go a lot.
How do you get salmonella?
The most common way to get salmonella is from undercooked food or improper food prep, like:
- Eating uncooked or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood or eggs
- Eating contaminated fruits and vegetables
- Drinking contaminated water or unpasteurized milk
- Not washing your hands while preparing food and eating
You can also get salmonella from animals and people who are infected with
Salmonella bacteria. You can get
Salmonella bacteria on your hands when you touch an animal, then transfer it to your mouth. Almost any animal can have a
Salmonella infection or carry
Salmonella bacteria on its fur, feathers, scales, or skin.
